Damaged Tree

[annie0000]

My neighbours son snapped a branch on another neighbours tree by hanging on it. It is a youngish cherry tree - about 8 foot high - the branch is still attached at the bottom end - we secured it with some tape and tied it further up to another branch to support it, the branch is quite heavy though and I am not sure if this will hold long term. Can this branch be saved? Does anyone have any suggestions? Would a nail through the branch into the tree do more harm than good? The branch is about 3-4cm thick at the base and it is detached right at the trunk.

[Clanad]

Broken branches, such as this, won't repair themselves. The repair, if successful, is new wood growing over the break. For this to occur successfully, the branch must be immobilized. That's not likely to happen with tape, rope and/or nails. You could consult a licensed arborist but I think, based on some experience with fruit trees of this size, that sawing the broken branch about two inches or so from where it joins the trunk will be the best course. Don't use paint, tar or other substances to "treat" the wound. Studies have shown that such action only inhibits the healthy tree's ability to heal itself.
Best of luck...

[Thunderbird+]

Hi annie,
Trying to save the damaged branch by strapping it up, supporting it or nailing it is really asking for trouble as it's likely to come down sometime later without any warning, it could also harbour pests and diseases at the damaged area.
I would recomend that the branch is firstly cut back to take off the bulk of the weight, then cut the remaining stub back cleanly to the main trunk, just at the point where it begins to swell. it should heal over fairly quickly and may even sprout a new branch. A small prunung saw would be best for this purpose. Good Luck. Tbird+

[Thunderbird+]

Sorry CLANAD but your answere was Not there when I started but it seems we agree as usual (great minds aye)

[annie0000]

Thanks guys - the problem is that the break is right at the trunk so it will take some of the bark of the trunk with it when it is removed - I agree that that is probably the only course of action, it just seems so sad. The tree is not very high, the branch is probably only about 3 feet from the ground and not that heavy, so I don't think that safety is concern, I would think that it will be okay 'til the weekend and we will do our best to ensure that we take it off cleanly.

[Thunderbird+]

Okay, I see annie,
Here's a tip to prevent the bark from ripping down into the trunk as you cut through:- before cutting the branch from the top, firstly make an under-cut slightly further in towards the trunk. (3or4 stokes of the saw should be enough, otherwise it may jam) Any jagged edges can be cleaned up afterwards.
All the best.